The recognition process is not only time-consuming but also financially demanding—especially if you don’t yet have a steady job or secure income in Germany. This info page will guide you through how to manage your everyday living expenses, what kinds of support and housing assistance are available, and how to apply for them.
💸 What Are the Living Costs During the Recognition Process?
Even if you’re not paying any exam or application fees, there are still ongoing monthly living expenses during the recognition phase—particularly if you're not yet allowed to work or are focusing on language courses and exam preparation. The actual costs can vary greatly depending on your location, housing situation, and lifestyle. Here’s a rough guide:
💶 Funding Programs for Living Expenses: And Who Can Benefit
Qualification Support from the Federal Employment Agency (QFM)
If you’re from a non-EU country (a so-called third country), the Central Service Agency for Professional Recognition (ZSBA) can guide you through the process and help you apply for funding via the QFM program.
- Possible benefits: subsidies for living expenses, course fees, travel costs
- Requirements:
🌍 Citizenship of a non-EU country
🛂 Residence permit in Germany (e.g., §16d or §17a of the Residence Act)
📄 Proof of an ongoing recognition process
💸 No sufficient personal income
💡 Tip: If you're already registered with the Employment Agency, you may also be eligible for an education voucher, which can cover preparatory or language courses. Whether you're entitled depends on your residence status and personal situation.
Support via the IQ Network
The IQ program is open to anyone seeking recognition of a foreign professional qualification—regardless of origin or residence status. In many federal states, free language courses, exam prep, or travel cost subsidies are available.
- Target group: Non-EU nationals, EU citizens, and refugees with a prospect of staying
- A valid residence permit is required (e.g., residence authorization, tolerated stay with work permit)
- Contact info at: netzwerk-iq.de
Other Funding Opportunities
💶 Recognition Grant from the BMBF:
If you have insufficient income or assets, you may be eligible for a one-time grant to cover recognition-related expenses—such as translations, fees, or course costs.
→ Info & application: anerkennungszuschuss.de
🗣️ BAMF Language Courses with Cost Coverage:
If you meet specific criteria (e.g., for integration or job-related language courses), the BAMF may cover a large portion or even all course fees.
Local Support Services
Many cities and districts offer their own support programs—usually through job centers, social services, or local foundations. The programs you qualify for typically depend on your residence status:
- If you're registered as unemployed, you may be eligible to apply for benefits under SGB II (citizen’s benefit)—but only with a valid residence and work permit.
- As an EU citizen without a job, you might be eligible for housing assistance or interim aid if you're actively pursuing recognition and integration.
- Refugees with temporary residence or tolerated status receive benefits under the Asylum Seekers Benefits Act—these can sometimes be used for partial language course funding.
➡️ A local consultation (e.g., at migration services or job centers) can help you identify what support you're eligible for.
🏠 Help with Rent and Housing Costs
Housing Benefit (Wohngeld)
If you’ve rented your own apartment but have little or no income, you can apply for housing benefit. This is a government rent subsidy—even if you’re not receiving citizen’s benefit.
- The housing benefit office in your city or municipality is responsible
- Apply as early as possible (retroactive applications may be possible)
Temporary Housing and Social Housing
Some cities offer transitional shelters, student dorms, or municipal housing options that are cheaper than the regular rental market. These are particularly helpful in the early stages.
- Contact social service providers, migration counseling centers, or the local immigration office
Support from Nonprofit Organizations
Organizations such as Caritas, Diakonie, or local welcome initiatives often assist with housing searches, offer in-kind donations or vouchers, and can connect you to emergency aid resources.
📝 Practical Tips for Planning and Applying
- Keep a written record of your monthly fixed expenses to stay on top of your finances
- Research local funding opportunities early
- Many programs don’t apply retroactively – submit your application before starting a course
- Get advice if needed (e.g., from ZSBA, IQ, or migration counseling services)
- Keep all receipts and application documents in a safe place
👉🏼 What You Can Do Now
- Create a list of your monthly expenses – it’ll help during consultations with support services.
- Upload important documents (e.g., rental contract, bank statements, proof of insurance) directly in the tool – safe and organized.
🎯 If you’re unsure which support options are right for you: we’ll help you choose and apply.
FAQ about Financial Aid during the Medical Licensing Process
Who can get financial support during the recognition process?Non-EU nationals with a valid residence permit (§16d or §17a) and no sufficient income can apply for support via the Jobcenter or Employment Agency (e.g., QFM program, education vouchers).
What is the Recognition Grant – and who qualifies?
A one-time grant from the BMBF for people with low income to cover recognition-related costs (e.g., translations, fees). Apply via: anerkennungszuschuss.de.
Can EU citizens also get support during recognition?
Yes, depending on residence status, EU citizens may get housing benefit, IQ program support, or even SGB II if actively pursuing recognition.
What is the QFM program?
A funding scheme for non-EU nationals covering living costs, course or travel fees during qualification. Application via ZSBA.
Can I apply for Housing Benefit (Wohngeld)?
Yes, if you rent your own apartment and have low income, you can apply – regardless of whether you receive other benefits.
What support does the IQ Network offer?
Free language courses, exam prep, travel subsidies – open to all with valid residence status, regardless of nationality.
📌 A quick legal note
The information provided in this article is for general guidance only and does not replace legal advice or official sources. We strive for accuracy, but we recommend consulting the responsible authorities for the most up-to-date requirements.
All information provided without guarantee.
